At least 109 Sri Lankans are stranded at an airport in Saudi Arabia, while another 22 remain stranded at an airport in Oman amid disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said.
He said some of those stranded in Oman may have already returned to Sri Lanka on an Oman Air flight that arrived early Wednesday.
The minister said the government is working in line with security restrictions imposed by the affected countries and safety measures implemented by airlines.
Responding to a question raised by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, Herath said authorities had received 10 requests from relatives seeking assistance to bring expatriate Sri Lankans back home.
He added that four individuals had reported losing contact with family members in the Middle East, while others had sought information about the evolving situation in the region.
Herath said the conflict has not affected remittances from Sri Lankans working abroad.
On a separate note, he said the ongoing conflict has had no impact on oil supplies to the island. Oil shipments to Sri Lanka continue via sea routes through Singapore and South Korea, he said, adding that European tourists also continue to arrive in the country.
Herath said the government is monitoring developments and has taken what he described as an “optimistic approach,” assuming the situation will not worsen.
Premadasa, however, said Sri Lanka should adopt a more cautious stance and prepare for a possible escalation.
Herath said the government has taken steps to minimize the impact of the conflict and is prepared to respond if the situation deteriorates. He added that the president has urged relevant heads of state to act with restraint and avoid further provocation. (NewsWire)